Most Arizona contractors injured while working overseas don’t realize the Defense Base Act creates a federal workers’ compensation system entirely separate from Arizona’s state law, with its own procedural rules, deadlines, and carrier requirements. You’re maneuvering two different legal worlds, and choosing an attorney who truly understands DBA-specific challenges makes the difference between a denied claim and proper benefits. The right lawyer knows how to handle the U.S. Department of Labor’s unique filing requirements and will fight insurance carriers experienced in minimizing payouts to overseas workers.
Understanding Defense Base Act Coverage for Arizona Contractors Working Overseas
The Defense Base Act requires Arizona contractors to secure workers’ compensation coverage for employees performing contract services on U.S. government projects outside the United States, covering U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and foreign nationals under qualifying contracts.
When Arizona contractors send employees overseas to work on U.S. government projects, they enter a specialized workers’ compensation system that most domestic employers never encounter. DoD’s 2009 report to Congress compared a single-provider option to the open market and noted potential savings and improvements, and that both DBA and the War Hazard Compensation Act are administered by the Department of Labor.
The Defense Base Act requires you to secure coverage for workers performing contract services abroad, whether they’re building military installations, providing security, or supporting humanitarian missions.
Contract eligibility extends beyond military bases to include public works projects and foreign assistance activities funded by the U.S. government.
Your international employment obligations cover U.S. citizens, residents, and even foreign nationals working under qualifying contracts, creating protection for your entire overseas workforce.
If a claim is denied, remember that denial is not final. DBA claims can be approved on appeal, and experienced attorneys can argue coverage under the zone of special danger and strengthen your documentation to improve outcomes.
Major Defense Contractors and Military Installations in Arizona
Arizona’s defense infrastructure creates a concentrated network of contractors and military facilities that regularly deploy thousands of workers to overseas projects under Defense Base Act coverage. You’re part of a substantial community of defense workers in this region. If you were injured or developed illness while deployed, prompt documentation and legal guidance can help avoid common claim denials and preserve your rights.
Major employers and installations include:
- Raytheon presence in Tucson, employing approximately 13,000 workers in missile and radar systems development
- Luke training operations west of Phoenix, preparing F-35 and F-16 pilots at the largest fighter training installation in the western world
- Davis-Monthan Air Force Base supporting A-10 operations and aircraft maintenance with over 7,500 military and civilian personnel
- Northrop Grumman facilities in Phoenix and Chandler focused on missile defense, employing around 3,000 workers
These organizations regularly send personnel to war zones and overseas locations where DBA protection applies. Contractors deployed from these Arizona hubs who later develop illnesses linked to burn pits may seek compensation through Defense Base Act claims, though deadlines and evidence requirements make early legal guidance critical.
Key Qualifications to Look for in Arizona Defense Base Act Attorneys
Because the Defense Base Act operates under a distinct federal framework with procedural rules that differ substantially from standard workers’ compensation systems, selecting an Arizona defense base act attorney requires careful evaluation of specialized qualifications rather than general litigation experience. You’ll want counsel with dedicated DBA experience who understands procedural requirements and statutory deadlines unique to overseas contractor claims.
Look for attorneys familiar with the zone of special danger doctrine, which expands coverage for injuries occurring near your work site. Verify their track record through documented case results and client reviews. Strong advocates skillfully navigate Department of Labor hearings while maintaining clear communication throughout your claim. Attorneys should also understand how the DBA integrates with the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, including key provisions under 33 U.S.C. §§ 901–950, to ensure proper filing, coverage interpretation, and compliance with DLHWC procedures.
How Arizona Workers’ Compensation Laws Interact With DBA Claims
Although most injured contractors in Arizona initially assume they’ll steer through familiar state workers’ compensation procedures, the Defense Base Act fundamentally alters that expectation by establishing exclusive federal jurisdiction over qualifying claims.
State preemption means you can’t pursue both systems simultaneously. Understanding this distinction protects your rights:
- Your claims procedure routes through the U.S. Department of Labor, not Arizona’s Industrial Commission
- Federal forms LS-201 and LS-203 replace state documentation requirements
- Compensation rates follow federal guidelines, not Arizona’s benefit schedules
- Arizona courts recognize DBA exclusivity in workplace injury cases
You’re piloting a specialized legal landscape that demands experienced federal representation.
Questions to Ask During Your Initial Consultation With Arizona DBA Lawyers
Once you’ve identified the federal jurisdiction governing your claim, selecting the right legal representative becomes your next priority.
During your initial consultation, ask about their experience with LHWCA cases, recent outcomes, and specific training in DBA law. Clarify their fee structure, whether they work on contingency or hourly rates, and how costs are handled if your claim succeeds or fails. Discuss communication preferences and how often you’ll receive updates. Request details about their evidence-gathering methods and familiarity with Arizona federal courts. Understanding their approach helps you find representation that matches your needs and expectations.
Common Defense Base Act Claim Denials Arizona Contractors Face
Understanding why Defense Base Act claims get denied helps Arizona contractors protect their rights and strengthen their case from the start. You’re not alone in facing these challenges, and knowing the common pitfalls keeps you prepared.
Arizona contractors frequently encounter denials due to:
- Insufficient documentation like missing medical records or incomplete injury reports
- Coverage disputes questioning whether your injury connects directly to defense contract work
- Administrative errors including missed deadlines or incorrect employer information
- Policy exclusions denying certain treatments or conditions not covered under DBA guidelines
Recognizing these issues early lets you build a stronger claim with experienced legal support.
What Makes Grossman Attorneys at Law the Best Defense Base Act Lawyers in Arizona?
- Deep Understanding of Defense Base Act Law – The firm focuses exclusively on longshore and maritime law, with Howard Grossman bringing more than 40 years of experience and having authored numerous books on DBA cases.
- Proven Track Record with High-Value Settlements – Grossman Attorneys has earned a reputation for achieving some of the highest DBA settlements in the industry through thorough case preparation and aggressive advocacy.
- Accessible Legal Support When You Need It Most – Clients speak directly with attorneys, receive same-day email responses, and work with a dedicated team of an attorney and paralegal.
- Multilingual Capabilities for Diverse Contractors – The firm operates in English, Spanish, Creole, French, Russian, and Ukrainian, allowing effective communication with Arizona’s diverse contractor community and handling of international documentation.
- Trial-Ready Litigators, Not Just Settlers – The firm’s attorneys are experienced litigators prepared to take cases to trial when doing so offers the best opportunity for full compensation.
Let The Arizona DBA Lawyers at Grossman Attorneys Help With Your Claim
If you’re a Arizona contractor who’s been injured while working overseas, you deserve legal representation that’s as committed and tough as you are. Grossman Attorneys at Law are a top-rated Defense Base Act claim law firm that have helped hundreds of individuals navigate the DBA claim process and secure the benefits they’ve earned.
Led by Howard Grossman, a seasoned attorney with 40+ years of distinguished experience and a preeminent national reputation in DBA and Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Act claimant representation, the firm brings unmatched expertise to every case. Howard’s extensive knowledge of both law and medicine allows him to go toe-to-toe with the most knowledgeable experts, giving clients a powerful advantage in complex litigation.
Grossman Attorneys take cases nationwide, with offices in Florida and Washington, DC, and they’re fully equipped to represent contractors no matter where their injury occurred or where they’re currently located. The firm is known for professionalism, integrity, and a proactive litigation style that earns respect from defense attorneys and results for clients.
